PATTAYA, Thailand – US Navy personnel from the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) face a detailed set of restrictions during their shore leave in Pattaya, including bans on driving, drugs, weapons and high-risk activities. The rules were established through coordination between the US Navy personnel, Pattaya authorities and police to help ensure safety and prevent incidents that could affect the reputation of both sides.
Personnel are prohibited from driving or controlling any motorized vehicle, including cars, motorcycles, scooters, boats and jet skis. They are also prohibited from renting motorized watercraft or using certain local transport services. Sexual services, human-trafficking-related activities, drugs and controlled substances are strictly prohibited. Personnel are also banned from buying or possessing weapons, ammunition, knives, swords, throwing stars and similar items.
They are instructed to avoid businesses that facilitate illegal activities, including prostitution and drug-related activity. Soi Tukcom, Soi Yensabai and Soi Buakhao are among areas where personnel have been advised to exercise caution and avoid where possible. Off-limits areas include locations east of Highway 7, south of Armin City Village and north of Bang Saen Ville, as well as all islands unless specifically authorized. After sunset, personnel are prohibited from entering the beach area west of Pattaya Beach Road, including Soi 6, Soi 6/1, Soi 13/4 and Soi 16.
Other prohibited activities include bungee jumping, skydiving, boxing, wrestling and martial arts. Hitchhiking and purchasing counterfeit or trademark-infringing goods are also banned. Personnel are prohibited from opening bar tabs to avoid potential payment disputes. Alcohol consumption is restricted to those aged 20 and over, while drinking in public places, being visibly intoxicated in public and bringing alcohol back aboard the ship are prohibited.
Electronic cigarettes and vaping devices are also prohibited under the port visit policy.
The measures are intended to keep the sailors’ time in Pattaya safe and orderly while reducing the risk of incidents during the carrier’s visit to Thailand. I can also make the headline more dramatic, particularly around the strict Pattaya restrictions and 5,000 sailors angle.
